By Milcah Tanimu

Amidst a surge of criticism against the Department of State Security (DSS) spurred by individuals aligned with former Central Bank Governor Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who allege that the DSS operates outside the bounds of the law and disregards court directives, Rising-Up for a United Nigeria, a civil society group committed to fostering good governance and transparency, has stepped forward to challenge these assertions, deeming them unfounded and misleading. During a press briefing in Abuja, Ambassador Solomon Adodo, the National Coordinator of Rising-Up for a United Nigeria, alongside representatives of 14 other Civil Society Organizations, emphasized that the DSS, as a professional law enforcement agency, is not prone to violating court orders. The CSOs further asserted that those attempting to tarnish the reputation of the security agency are mere paid proxies obstructing justice and safeguarding individuals who have illicitly enriched themselves with public funds. In a portion of the statement, it states, “It is disheartening that some individuals are defending Emefiele, who is accountable for the financial challenges currently faced by Nigerians, while trying to vilify the DSS. The DSS has consistently sought to hold Emefiele accountable for allegations including supporting terrorism and engaging in money laundering since 2022. Despite Emefiele’s various tactics, including legal maneuvers, to obstruct the agency, the DSS adhered to court orders restraining his arrest. How then can it be claimed that the DSS disobeys court orders?” The CSOs further affirmed that Emefiele’s recent apprehension following his suspension and additional criminal accusations was conducted in accordance with the DSS’s mandate and based on a valid magistrate’s order, which the agency duly followed. “Individuals purportedly advocating for the rule of law and human rights must acknowledge that Emefiele was arrested and detained under a Magisterial Order issued by Justice Hamza Mu’azu of the FCT High Court. Justice Mu’azu recognized the DSS’s legal authority to arrest, detain, and investigate Emefiele. The judge ordered either Emefiele’s release or prosecution within seven days, a directive the DSS promptly adhered to by charging him with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. The DSS has consistently respected court orders, even amidst conflicting mandates. How can this be construed as a disregard for court orders and a conflict with the judiciary?” questioned the statement. Regarding Emefiele’s re-arrest, the CSOs emphasized that security agencies routinely follow established procedures when investigating crimes, asserting that Emefiele’s case should not be misconstrued. They condemned the series of malicious media attacks aimed at DSS Director General Yusuf Magaji, asserting that calls to abolish the DSS are absurd, widely condemned by sensible citizens, and merely underscore the propagandist’s long-term intent to undermine national security. “The incidents in Lagos and other parts of Abuja should not be erroneously interpreted as noncompliance with court orders, as the DSS has consistently taken measures to safeguard Nigeria’s national security. The DSS’s role as a stabilizing influence for Nigeria’s democracy and sovereignty remains indispensable. We urge critics to exercise accurate judgment and conduct thorough research prior to forming opinions. The DSS’s adherence to the law is evident in its compliance with judicial directives and pursuit of legal channels, even during its appeal process,” the statement concluded.